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	<title>Portals Magazine &#187; Womens Health</title>
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	<link>http://www.portalsmag.com</link>
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		<title>Women Who Use Hormonal Contraceptives are at a Higher Risk for HIV</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/women-who-use-hormonal-contraceptives-are-at-a-higher-risk-for-hiv/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/women-who-use-hormonal-contraceptives-are-at-a-higher-risk-for-hiv/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 26 Oct 2011 22:40:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[HIV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hormones]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=270</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A recent study in Africa could change the way health workers approach the public health crises of HIV and infant mortality in the Sub-Sahara. For 20 years research has suggested there was a connection to increased risk of HIV transmission and hormone contraception, yet only one prior study was done specifically addressing oral hormone contraceptives. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/q6.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-271" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/q6.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="267" /></a>A recent study in Africa could change the way health workers approach the public health crises of HIV and infant mortality in the Sub-Sahara. For 20 years research has suggested there was a connection to increased risk of HIV transmission and hormone contraception, yet only one prior study was done specifically addressing oral hormone contraceptives. Now findings show a possible relation to injectable hormone contraception, commonly known as the hormone shot. The study suggests women are twice as likely to contract the HIV virus as women who use other forms of contraception, including none at all. This proves to be a problem because injectable hormone contraception is the number one method of birth control in women of the Sub-Sahara.</p> <p> </p> <p>It is not clear why women who use the hormone shot are at higher risk. Samples taken from HIV-infected women using the injectable hormone contraception were found to have higher concentrations of the HIV virus in their vaginal fluid. The same concentrations were not found in their blood however. This suggests that possible mechanisms that contribute to the increased susceptibility could include changes to the vaginal structure and cervicovaginal HIV shedding of cells. It is important to take the findings in context. This particular study was not targeted to find the relation between injectable hormonal contraception and HIV transmission. The results were discovered during the research process and were potentially compromised by the self-reporting techniques used in information gathering. More research needs to be conducted before drawing a definitive conclusion.</p> <p> </p> <p>The possible link between the widely-used hormone shot and HIV transmission is counterproductive to public health initiatives in Sub-Saharan Africa. Health issues such as low birth weight and high infant mortality rates continue to plague the region. The use of hormone contraceptives is very effective in controlling pregnancy. The idea that this form of contraception could be harmful would be a tragic outcome for the population and committed health workers in the area. It is widely agreed that more testing needs to be done before eliminating the option of injectable hormone contraception. The benefits received must be balanced against the risk of HIV transmission. HIV testing, education and counseling combined with contraceptive counseling emphasizing dual protection with condoms will continue to be the public health message to the women of the Sub-Sahara.</p> <p> </p> <p>Rachel Owens is a health and fitness blogger. She also takes a particular interest in mental health and how tool like <a href="http://selfdevelopment.net/online-store/subliminal.html">subliminal cds</a> can be used to help overcome self esteem battles.</p></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Why You Should Be Wearing a One</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/why-you-should-be-wearing-a-one/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/why-you-should-be-wearing-a-one/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 19 Oct 2011 19:06:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bra]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=268</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A bra is one thing that most women start wearing early on in their lives while other women start wearing bras later on in life. The question that many younger women and some men want to know is why do women wear bras? Is it just a fashionable under garment or does it serve a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A bra is one thing that most women start wearing early on in their lives while other women start wearing bras later on in life. The question that many younger women and some men want to know is why do women wear bras? Is it just a fashionable under garment or does it serve a more practical purpose? 
<h2>The Real Reason</h2>
The number one reason why women wear bras is that a bra keeps a woman’s breasts from sagging. Breasts have veins and ligaments in them that can atrophy as women grow older. A bra helps a woman’s breasts to retain their natural shape and insure that her breasts receive proper blood flow all throughout her life. </p>

<p>Bras are also necessary for women who live active lifestyles, have physically demanding jobs or exercise frequently. A well designed bra helps them to insure that their breasts have the proper support for any occasion.
<h2>Different Types of Bras</h2>
Sports Bra – These bras are designed for women who live active lifestyles. A typical sports bra will help to keep a woman’s breasts in place and give her confidence that her breasts will be firmly supported at all times.</p>

<p>Maternity Bra – This type of bra is adjustable and is typically worn by women who are pregnant or nursing. </p>

<p><a href="http://www.barenecessities.com/Minimizer-Bras_catalog_nxs,31,style,61.htm">Minimizer Bra</a>- Helps reduce your bust size.</p>

<p>Nursing Bra – A nursing bra is typically worn by women who are breastfeeding their babies. Typical maternity bras have flaps on the front that can be conveniently removed so a woman can breastfeed her baby any time she wants.</p>

<p>Underwire Bra – Unlike other bras, an underwire bra provides excellent support while at the same time helping to retain the bras shape. Although this type of bra does help a woman to have firm support for her breasts, many women have claimed that underwire bras are uncomfortable while other women love them.
</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Bra Health</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/bra-health/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/bra-health/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 02 Oct 2011 02:24:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bras]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=264</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The health of your bra and the health of your bust are both very important. If you take good care of your bras, they will take good care of you in that they will be comfortable and they will last for a long period of time. It can be hard to find good bras, especially [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/b8.jpg"><img src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/b8.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="238" class="alignleft size-full wp-image-265" /></a>The health of your bra and the health of your bust are both very important. If you take good care of your bras, they will take good care of you in that they will be comfortable and they will last for a long period of time. It can be hard to find good bras, especially if you're on a budget, but you can locate them if you're a savvy shopper. Taking care of the bras you have will also help you when it comes to saving money, because your bras will last a lot longer.</p>

<p><h2>Wash Your Bras Gently</h2></p>

<p>If you're just throwing your bras into the washing machine with all your other clothing, you could be shortening their lifespan. It's much better to wash them separately, or at least put them in a net bag that is made specifically for washing delicate items like bras, underwear, and stockings. When you care for your bras, they'll fit better and last longer.</p>

<p><h2>Don't Buy the Cheapest Thing Available</h2></p>

<p>It's tempting to buy something inexpensive as long as it fits well, but you might want to spend those extra few dollars to get a bra that is of a higher quality. You don't have to, but high-quality bras last longer overall than low-quality bras. If you want to have a healthy bra and a healthy, comfortable bustline, buying bras that are of a good quality will be the better choice.</p>

<p>Overall, there are many options when purchasing a bra. You should pay attention to size, fit, quality, brand, material, and other factors. Consider all of the issue when you buy a <a href="http://www.barenecessities.com/Wacoal-Bras_catalog_nxs,31,vendor,820.htm">wacoal bra</a>, and carefully read the instructions in order to learn the right way to care for your new purchase. That way, the bras you purchase will be more comfortable and last you much longer.</p>

]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Pros and Cons of Sleeping in your Bra?</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-sleeping-in-your-bra/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-sleeping-in-your-bra/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 16 Sep 2011 01:33:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health Benefits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bras]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=260</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The question of whether or not to wear a bra to bed has been hotly debated. Most of us adhere fiercely to one side or another based on what our mothers have told us or what we’ve read or what we’ve always done. When the issue has been studied though, it has been determined to [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/b15.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-261" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/b15.jpg" alt="" width="260" height="203" /></a>The question of whether or not to wear a bra to bed has been hotly debated. Most of us adhere fiercely to one side or another based on what our mothers have told us or what we’ve read or what we’ve always done. When the issue has been studied though, it has been determined to be a non-issue, medically speaking. It seems that wearing a bra to bed—or not—has no measurable effect on women. In the absence of any hard data, researchers suggest that the decision should be left to the preferences of the individual. So what reasons do individuals give for their preferences?</p> <h2>Sleeping in a Bra</h2> <p>Wearing a bra to bed simply seems like good sense. After all, if wearing one all day can keep you from wearing out the body’s ligaments and someday sagging then surely wearing it all night can do the same. In addition, if you have large breasts it can help to corral them, making sleep easier and more comfortable. Some women suggest that wearing a bra to bed is comforting and allows them to feel more put together upon getting up. Some wear their <a href="http://www.barenecessities.com/Chantelle_brand_14.htm">chantelle bras</a> to bed to entice their partners.</p> <h2>Going Bare</h2> <p>Alternatively, some women entice their partners by not wearing a bra in bed at all. Others suggest that wearing a bra to bed impedes the body’s ability to breathe. This certainly may have been true in the past, when synthetic fabrics were in their infancy. Still others enjoy the freedom of not having to wear a bra all the time. They find it relaxing to release their breasts at bedtime. This is especially true on hot or muggy evenings, when having another layer between you and the air seems intolerable. In the end, the choice of whether or not to wear a bra to bed, as well as your rationale for that choice, is intensely personal.</p></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Being a Mother Over Forty?</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/being-a-mother-over-forty/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/being-a-mother-over-forty/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Feb 2011 06:10:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Everything Else]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mom]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mother]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=111</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Not everyone is a young mother; sometimes women prefer to wait until they are older, when they feel more secure with who they are, their work and their relationships. But, what is it like to be a mother when you’re 40 or older?  The Advantages of Being an Older Mom   One big advantage of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/mom-9.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-112" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/mom-9.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="180" /></a>Not everyone is a young mother; sometimes women prefer to wait until they are older, when they feel more secure with who they are, their work and their relationships. But, what is it like to <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/parenting-articles/becoming-a-mom-after-35-4191961.html">be a mother</a> when you’re 40 or older?</p> <p> </p><h2>The Advantages of Being an Older Mom</h2> <p> </p> <p>One big advantage of having a child when you’re forty or over is the experience and wisdom you can bring to that wonderful event. An older woman has seen the world and has had many life and career experiences, compared to one who is younger. And, an older woman is often more financially  situated. Being financially secure usually means a higher standard of health care, a more stable home environment and a safer pregnancy. In addition, having a strong relationship will also help with the responsibilities of a new baby.</p> <h2>What Other Advantages in Being Older?</h2> <p>Other advantages in being an older mom is the self-confidence a woman has when caring for her new baby. In most cases, the older mom has had life experiences with her partner, job and other areas in her life that make her feel positive and self assured. These qualities help when caring for the baby. Some older moms look at having a baby as a wonderful adventure—something special—an event that will add to her life and to her spouse’s.</p> <h2>Are there Disadvantages of Being an older mom?</h2> <p>Even though there are many advantages in having a baby when you’re over 40, there are some disadvantages such as possibly getting high blood pressure, gaining too much  weight, having a C-section, having a hard time getting back into shape, or giving birth to a baby who may have a birth defect.</p> <p>So, if you’re thinking about having a baby later in life, first discuss this option with your physician and understand that with this decision, there will be blessings as well as challenges.</p> <p>Looking for <a href="http://www.momswhothink.com/">websites for moms</a>?</p></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Choosing a Family Name for your Baby</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/choosing-a-family-name-for-your-baby/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/choosing-a-family-name-for-your-baby/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Nov 2010 02:15:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MReed</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Everything Else]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[baby names]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[unique names]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=74</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Just about everyone has a family name that is significant or special to them in some way.  These unique names may be that of a matriarch or patriarch of the family, an aunt or uncle and sometimes just any other family member that new parents may want to honor.  Couples electing to pay [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-75" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/family-baby.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="227" />Just about everyone has a family name that is significant or special to them in some way.  These <a href="http://www.momswhothink.com/baby-names/unique-baby-names.html">unique names</a> may be that of a matriarch or patriarch of the family, an aunt or uncle and sometimes just any other family member that new parents may want to honor.  Couples electing to pay homage must be careful to discuss and agree on the name and respect each others concerns about the choice.  Remember your mate may not have known the family member and may not share your treasured memories of that relationship.</p> <h2>Remember the Middle Name</h2><p>Not only should parents share the choice of using a family name for their newborn, but also try to keep in mind that they may want to respect each others choice.  By deciding to give their child a middle name the opportunity to use multiple family names becomes an option.  The decision to use a family name will usually mean that the name chosen will be from a previous generation and may be considered “old fashioned,”  parents should give some thought to those implications.  Your child must wear the name you choose for many years and you want them to be as comfortable with the name as you were when you chose the name.  Always remember your child will most likely not share your admiration or relationship for their namesake.</p> <h2>Last but not least</h2><p>In the many sleepless nights that you may spend deciding on your child’s name, always remember that you want to choose a name that blends well with your last name.  The family names that you like the most may not work well or become tongue twisting names.  Keep in mind your offspring and others such as teachers, co-workers and many others will be living with your choice.  The combination of first, middle and last name should provide initials that are not subject to merciless teasing.</p></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>I Love my Shark! (Shark Portable Steam Pocket)</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/i-love-my-shark-shark-portable-steam-pocket/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/i-love-my-shark-shark-portable-steam-pocket/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:07:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Latest News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Pet Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Shark Portable Steam Pocket]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[www.getsharksteamer.com]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=42</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Wow, I'm blown away at how fast I can clean windows, tables, bathrooms... Yeah, you get the idea.  I'm not here to rehash the infomercial.  I just want to let people know, the damn thing works as advertised.  Who woulda thought?  I haven't tried the steam mop thingy, but I just might give that a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-43" title="getsharksteamer" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/getsharksteamer.jpg" alt="getsharksteamer" width="280" height="280" />Wow, I'm blown away at how fast I can clean windows, tables, bathrooms... Yeah, you get the idea.  I'm not here to rehash the infomercial.  I just want to let people know, the damn thing works as advertised.  Who woulda thought?  I haven't tried the steam mop thingy, but I just might give that a try next.</p>

<p>If you are on the fence about it - give it a try.  Pretty damn cool little device.  You'll clean faster, everything you touch is sanitized, and it's even sorta fun to use.  One thing not mentioned on the TV commercials or the web site (GetSharkSteamer.com) is that if you have "hard water" you will need to use distilled water.  I don't know much about water, but I'm guessing it's disolved minerals...maybe from well water?  Anyway, if you have that - keep in mind there will be an extra step in using this thing.  I'd still say it's worthwhile.</p>

<p>One other thing, the web site is over priced - just like the TV ad.  If you want a discount, here it is for $64.99:  <a href="http://www.behindthecounter.com/shark-portable-steam-pocket-clean-sanitize/">Get Shark Portable Steam Pocket Coupons &amp; Discounts</a>.   If any of you have a negative experience with the portable steam pocket, add a comment below.  I'm curious if everyone likes it as much as I do.  I'd also love to hear from someone with the mop!</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Women&#8217;s Health</title>
		<link>http://www.portalsmag.com/womens-health/ </link>
		<comments>http://www.portalsmag.com/womens-health/ #comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:39:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Diana</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Womens Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.portalsmag.com/?p=28</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Women play an important role in the society, in mostly community and in the country. It is where they also contribute something different with men. And for me women need to have the exact right she needs for her life. They should be given equal rights, good attention and good health.

Although we know that for [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-29" src="http://www.portalsmag.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/womens-health.jpg" alt="womens-health" width="262" height="224" />Women play an important role in the society, in mostly community and in the country. It is where they also contribute something different with men. And for me women need to have the exact right she needs for her life. They should be given equal rights, good attention and good health.</p>

<p>Although we know that for other countries women treated unequally than men. It is where they experience discrimination. Especially for their right, but nowadays, women have already proved to their self and to other people most especially man that they can also contribute something difference that the country would never forget.</p>

<p>That is why women also need to have a good health. It is too continue their duty in life, their unfinished work not in the house where they where serving in the community. Women need to have a healthy life style as well as a healthy well being.</p>

<p>They need to be fit always by taking good care of their body, a right exercise, as well as right nutritious foods, and vitamins. This all things help them to achieve a good health they all wanted. This may help them to continue their unfinished duty.</p>

<p>Women’s are not like men who have a strong body and mind, that is why women really needs to give important to their health in order for them to get continue on what ever work they are doing.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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